The federal government will only table a motion to repeal the Internal Security Act (ISA) next March, revealed Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Speaking to reporters after chairing the Umno supreme council meeting in Kuala Lumpur this evening, Najib said that time was needed to draft two new “replacement” laws.

However, the premier said that the Restricted Residence Act 1933 and Banishment Act 1959 will be repealed when the Parliamenrt convenes next Friday.

“Next week, I will personally table the motion to abolish the laws,” he said.

The two related laws allows for restriction of movement without trial.

Najib also revealed that the government would be tabling bills to amend Section 27 of the Police Act 1967, which relates to freedom of assembly laws, in November.

The timetable comes two days after it was discussed during Wednesday’s cabinet meeting.

Najib had on Sept 15 announced a slew of reforms allowing more space for civil liberties.

However, today’s timetable did not specify the timeline for the lifting of three emergencies and amendments and to the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 as promised in that announcement.

azlanAmong the several proposed reforms, the repeal of ISA, which provides for detention without trial, is the most controversial among them and has seen opposition from within Umno.

However, Najib, who is also Umno president, moved to soothe concerns, stating that the supreme council “unanimous supports the government’s reforms”.

“Umno leaders have been involved in explaining the reforms and most of the members understand it.”

The ISA is only expected to be repealed after its two replacement laws are ready, however opponents have vowed to oppose any new laws that would provide for detention without trial.

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